The term "hybrid course" (a term we use interchangeably with the term "blended learning") names a model of course design that combines traditional, face-to-face class time with online and out-of-class course work. For UW Bothell specifically, we define hybrid courses as those where 25% to 50% of the traditional face-to-face class time is replaced with online or out-of-class work. (See UCF Blended Learning Toolkit for an alternative definition of "blended learning.")

The replacement of 25% to 50% of in-class time with online and out-of-class work differentiates"hybrid courses" from "Web-enhanced courses," which continue to meet during the normal class hours and use the online component to supplement face-to-face time. (Allen et al. 2007)

For instance, a course that traditionally meets twice a week face-to-face would instead meet once a week face-to-face, with the rest of the course activities online.

UW Bothell faculty can replace up to 50% of face-to-face class time with online activities and work without needing to go through the curriculum review process.

There is a growing body of research that shows that hybrid learning can enhance student learning beyond traditional face-to-face courses and in fully online courses. One of the largest studies, done by the U.S. Department of Education, showed a significant improvement of learning in hybrid courses as compared to face-to-face and online (2009). This course format gives faculty and students greater flexibility in terms of scheduling their classes as well as increased student engagement.